Today 7th January 2020 marks the observation and celebration of the Constitution Day as instituted by the Akuffo Addo led government. What do you know about the Constitution? here are some interesting facts about our dearly beloved constitution.
- The 1992 constitution of Ghana was approved on 28 April 1992 and came into force on 7th January 1992 under the leadership of former Jerry John Rawlings. The passing of the constitution into law was made possible when 92% of Ghanaians gave their support in a referendum.
2. Being in existence for the past 27 years, the 1992 constitution of Ghana has and continues to be the longest serving book of law to be used in the history of Ghana.
3. Aside the 1992 constitution, Ghana has had three other constitutions which had a short lifespan in the administration of the country. There was the 1960 constitution which lasted for 9 years, the 1969 constitution which also lasted for 10 years and the 1979 constitution which lasted for 13-14 years.
4. The 1992 constitution has, apart from the preamble, 26 chapters and 299 articles. These chapters and articles make provision for the definition of the fundamental political principles, procedures, powers and duties of the government.
5. The constitution also sets out the structure of the judiciary and legislature as well as spelling out the fundamental rights and duties of citizens. Chapter 5 of the constitution has been solely dedicated to the fundamental rights and duties of the citizens.
6. The easiest article to remember and memorize in the constitution is Article 17 clause 1 which states that “All persons shall be equal before the law.”
7. The constitution also indemnified the members and appointees of the PNDC from liability for any official act or omission during the eleven years of PNDC rule. These provisions, according to constitution experts seem designed to prevent retribution and foster an atmosphere of peace and reconciliation.
There you have it. some interesting facts about the 1992 constitution of Ghana.
